Manchester City have revived their interest in Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres, according to reports in the Italian media.

The Citizens originally scouted the 24-year-old eighteen months ago, well before they secured the services of Ruben Dias, but it seems manager Pep Guardiola is still interested in adding another defender to his ranks.

There have been claims in recent days that Nathan Ake may consider leaving the Etihad Stadium for more first-team football, despite only arriving from Bournemouth at the start of the season.

Were that to be the case, Torres would be an ideal replacement, considering he is left-footed like the Dutchman. The Spanish international also has a €50m (£43m) release clause which could help get a deal over the line.

However, there are also a number of other Premier League clubs who are pursuing the defender with Arsenal and Manchester United, in particular, said to be keen on the player.